Container Overtime Charge

Container Overtime Charge (also known as Container Detention) refers to the extra fee that the container user (cargo owner or their agent) must pay to the shipping line or container lessor for failing to return the container on time after the free period stipulated by the carrier (usually 7-10 days after pick-up) expires. This fee is common in scenarios such as overdue return after import pick-up or overdue return after export loading, and is charged per day with rates typically increasing in tiers. Unlike Demurrage, which generally refers to charges for overdue storage within the terminal, Container Overtime Charge emphasizes the 'usage' aspect, i.e., overdue occupation of the container after it leaves the terminal. Notes: The starting point of the free period varies by shipping line (e.g., discharge date, pick-up date), so it should be confirmed in advance; if the delay is caused by force majeure such as port congestion or customs inspection, a reduction or waiver can be applied for but supporting documents are required. Foreign trade practitioners should specify in the contract which party bears the Container Overtime Charge to avoid high costs due to delayed container return.